DRINK: A Manhattan Valentine’s Day Date Guide

If you’re going out for drinks this Valentine’s Day, you don’t want to go where everyone else is going and be stuck wrangling for a bartender’s attention, do you? This year, pick a place that’s cozy and just quiet enough for you to be able to carry on some good conversation, and of course, one that also serve up delicious drinks. Here’s a list of my favorite Manhattan bars in romantic spaces that you and your significant other will love.

One of my favorite neighborhood bars, Art Bar has two personalities but is always chill. Decide where to park yourself depending on how the tone of your date is going – take a booth in the front for an atmosphere that’s more lively. Head to the dimly lit, cozy and couch-filled back room for a more romantic feel, and order something off their fun list of seasonal cocktails. Also: their nachos are the best bar food I’ve ever had.

52 8th Avenue
New York, NY 10014

Angel’s Share

Start off with a delicious dinner at bustling Village Yokocho and share a spicy tuna bowl and some fried squid legs, then impress your date by showing her the nondescript door leading to hidden Angel’s Share, an quiet, intimate cocktail bar with an extensive list of drinks. Check our past writeup and make sure you watch out for Shingo Gokan (he’s an award winning cocktail mixer!). There’s no more than four allowed per party, and also no standing or loud noises, so you’ll be able to have some great conversation.

Much like the above, it’s a dinner + drinks situation, but this time it’s way more uptown. The location ensures that it won’t be crazy packed like most downtown bars. Share a dragon roll at romantic and classy Isohama (best sushi I’ve had on the UES) then head over to AZA next door for some drinks in the cozy red-lit back room. I haven’t been here in a while but I used to come here for gin + tonics many times, and it’s a nice quiet place to sit and chat for hours. They’ve also got live music and hookah to keep you occupied.

This quiet wine bar in the Gramercy is super tiny and maybe not as comfortable (it’s high tables and stools) but it’s fairly casual in terms of atmosphere, and the wine list is extensive and delicious. Order a bottle and split some tapas and you’re good to go. I haven’t been, but hear Casa Mono next door (owned by the same people) is good for more substantial food. Try to sneak into nearby Gramercy Park if you’re feeling bold after a couple of drinks.

How could you go wrong with a cupcake + wine + beer bar? Pair sweet treats with booze at this adorable spot that offers a small menu for late night non-sweet munchies, and they’ve even got breakfast, brunch, and lunch, if your V-Day date just happens to extend until the next day. If cupcakes aren’t your thing, they have cookies and pies too – and if none of those are your thing, that’s just crazy.